North Texas Recruiting Offices Stepping Up Security
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PLANO (CBS11) - In the wake of a deadly shooting at a Chattanooga military recruiting office that left four U.S. Marines dead, recruiters in North Texas are reevaluating security measures.
In Plano, officers for nearly each branch confirmed the discussion has begun on how to respond to such an attack locally.
While many offices are equipped with cameras and training is given on how to respond to violent threats, some feel more needs to be done to protect recruiters.
"We're essentially a lone target out here and it's easy for us to be targeted," said Sgt. Jose Cortez, a recruiter for the U.S. Air Force.
"Whether it's anybody against the military or radicalists, it's easy for them to attack us."
Sgt. Cortez said his office is taking a second look at how to create protocols to prevent a deadly attack at local offices.
Officers with Plano Police visited local recruiting centers Thursday night to get a better idea of where the locations are and to also discuss the possibility of new security patrols.
Sgt. Cortez said while all dangers cannot be removed from the job, it is comforting to know the conversation has already started. He feels it might be the difference in stopping a similar tragedy from happening in North Texas.
"I'm going to be a little more cautious about it and I'm going to make sure I enforce all the security measures that come down from my leadership," said Sgt. Cortez.
There is also conversation nationwide surrounding the ability to arm recruiters in order to protect themselves. While some recruiters would like the option, they said they will continue to follow orders and focus on safety.
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